The presidential office said on the 19th that it "respects the decision" of Kim Seung-won, the nominee for justice minister, to withdraw from consideration.
Kang Yu-jung, senior presidential spokesperson, said in a notice to reporters that day, "We understand the nominee made the decision in order to reduce the burden on state affairs." She added, "Any follow-up procedures that are needed going forward will proceed in accordance with established rules."
Earlier that morning, Kim held a news conference at the National Assembly press center and said, "After deep deliberation, I have decided to step down as the nominee for justice minister." The announcement came 20 days after his nomination.
Bowing his head, Kim said, "I am grateful to the president for nominating me, and I am truly sorry for failing to live up to expectations." He added, "I take seriously the fact that I fell short of the public's standards, and I will reflect deeply on my shortcomings." He also said, "I extend my deepest sympathies to people with disabilities and their families who may have been hurt by this, to those who have devoted themselves to caregiving work, and to everyone I have been connected with."
President Lee Jae-myung, asked at a news conference the previous day whether he would appoint Kim, had said, "I believe I made the best possible personnel choice, but various controversies have arisen during the public vetting process." He added, "I have not yet reached a final conclusion. I will decide carefully, taking into account the public's standards."
